3 day itinerary for Iceland

Itinerary

Iceland is a stunning destination, and with three days to explore, you can experience some of its most breathtaking sights while keeping a relaxed pace. Let’s dive into your ideal itinerary, focusing on whales and puffins, all while ensuring a safe and enjoyable road trip!

## Day 1: Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

Morning:

• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café in Reykjavik. Try some traditional Icelandic skyr or a hearty Icelandic breakfast.
• After breakfast, take a stroll around the city. Don’t miss Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic church with its stunning views from the tower.

Midday:

• Hit the road and embark on the Golden Circle route. Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Take your time to walk around and soak in the scenery.

Afternoon:

• Next, head to Geysir Geothermal Area. Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes—it's quite a show!
• Afterward, visit Gullfoss, the "Golden Falls." The power and beauty of this waterfall are simply mesmerizing.

Evening:

• Return to Reykjavik and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood or lamb dishes.
• If you’re up for it, take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the Harpa Concert Hall illuminated at night.

## Day 2: Whale Watching and Puffin Spotting

Morning:

• After breakfast, make your way to the Old Harbour in Reykjavik for a whale-watching tour. There are several operators, and the tours usually last around 3-4 hours. Keep your eyes peeled for minke whales, humpbacks, and maybe even orcas!

Midday:

• Once back on land, grab a quick lunch at one of the harbor-side eateries. A fish and chips meal is a great choice!

Afternoon:

• After lunch, take a short drive to the nearby island of Viðey. This is a fantastic spot for puffin watching during the summer months (typically from May to August). You can take a ferry from the Old Harbour, and once there, enjoy a peaceful walk around the island while looking for puffins.

Evening:

• Return to Reykjavik and unwind. Consider visiting a local geothermal pool, like the Laugardalslaug, for a relaxing soak.
• For dinner, try a traditional Icelandic dish like lamb soup or a seafood platter.

## Day 3: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Adventure

Morning:

• After breakfast, set off for the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” because of its diverse landscapes. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik, so enjoy the scenic route!

Midday:

• Your first stop is the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi. Take a leisurely walk along the coastal cliffs and look for puffins nesting in the area (especially in summer). The rock formations are stunning!

Afternoon:

• Continue to the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. This is one of the most photographed spots in Iceland, so don’t forget your camera!
• If time allows, visit the Snæfellsjökull National Park. You can take a short hike or simply enjoy the views of the glacier-capped volcano.

Evening:

• Head back to Reykjavik, and on your way, stop at a local restaurant for a farewell dinner. Celebrate your Icelandic adventure with some delicious local cuisine.
• If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights on your drive back, especially if you’re visiting in the winter months!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Always check the weather and road conditions, as they can change rapidly in Iceland.
• Make sure to have a reliable GPS or map, as some areas can be remote.
• Keep your camera ready for spontaneous photo opportunities—every corner in Iceland is picture-perfect!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic and relaxing trip to Iceland! Enjoy the whales, puffins, and all the natural beauty this incredible country has to offer! Safe travels! 🌍✨